In a deeply disturbing incident, Andhra Pradesh police arrested senior Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Tatik Narayana Rao in Kakinada district for allegedly attempting to sexually assault a 13-year-old schoolgirl. The accused reportedly posed as the girl’s grandfather to convince her to leave her school premises before taking her to a secluded mango orchard in Tuni.
According to Kakinada DSP Srihari Raju, the case has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and other relevant IPC sections, including kidnapping.
Incident Came to Light Through a Video
The shocking crime was uncovered when the orchard owner noticed suspicious behavior and recorded a video showing the accused with the young girl. When Rao realized he was being filmed, he fled the scene on his scooter, taking the girl with him.
The victim’s family filed a police complaint, and officers quickly tracked down and arrested the accused. Authorities confirmed that the investigation is being fast-tracked, and the accused will be produced before court soon.
Public Outrage and Protests in Kakinada
Following the incident, local residents and the girl’s family gathered outside the Gurukula school, demanding strict punishment for the accused and action against the school administration for negligence.
Reports suggest that the school principal is also being questioned for allegedly allowing the girl to leave without proper authorization.
DSP Srihari Raju warned that sharing images or videos of the minor victim on social media or media platforms would lead to strict legal action under the POCSO Act.
Police Warn Against Political Linking
The police have made it clear that the case should not be politicized. DSP Raju clarified that no political party has officially confirmed the accused’s active association with the TDP at the time of the incident.
Authorities emphasized that the law will take its full course regardless of the accused’s social or political status.
YSRCP Condemns the Incident
The YSR Congress Party’s student wing strongly condemned the act on social media, calling the accused a “vile elderly predator”. They criticized the TDP’s silence and demanded immediate justice for the young victim.
The post also reignited debate over women’s safety in Andhra Pradesh, urging the government to ensure stricter monitoring and faster trials in cases involving minors.
Impact and Public Concern
The incident has sparked outrage across Andhra Pradesh, with many activists and citizens demanding stronger enforcement of POCSO laws and mandatory school safety protocols to prevent such tragedies.
This case once again raises serious concerns about the safety of children within educational institutions and the accountability of political figures accused of heinous crimes.
Conclusion
The arrest of senior leader Tatik Narayana Rao has once again drawn attention to the urgent need for child safety reforms and accountability in public life. While the police have acted swiftly, the public demands quick justice for the young victim.
As the investigation continues, citizens and activists urge that the POCSO Act be implemented strictly and that no political influence interferes with the judicial process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the accused in this case?
The accused is Tatik Narayana Rao, a senior Dalit leader allegedly linked to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP).
Where did the incident take place?
The incident occurred in Tuni, Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh, where the accused allegedly took the girl to a mango orchard.
What charges have been filed?
A case has been registered under the POCSO Act, and sections related to kidnapping and attempted sexual assault have been added.
Has the accused been arrested?
Yes, the accused was arrested by the police and will be produced before court soon.
What is the government’s response?
While the police have taken strict action, opposition and public groups are demanding faster trials and stronger child safety laws to prevent such incidents.